ABSTRACT
English proficiency has been widely acknowledged as important in China due to gradually globalization and internationalization, and English learners need to apply English for pursuing higher education working and living abroad. Despite efforts to enhance English education, many Chinese college students still have lots of problems on their English writing skills, which may be attributed to insufficient practice and neglect in universities’ curriculum. This study investigates the potential of game-based learning to improve English writing skills among Chinese college students by identifying key elements in educational games that can stimulate interest and maintain students’ engagement. Hence, a literature review is conducted to extract these elements including the strategies of cognition, motivation, affection and sociocultural. Moreover, a digital game prototype based on these key elements is developed to engage students in English writing. The study also discusses strategies for improving English writing skills and the potential of game-based learning to address teaching challenges.
